One Young World Summit sparks HIM student on new life path

The summit is an international event bringing together some of brightest international young talent from global and national companies, NGOs and universities. The young delegates are joined by world leaders to debate and share innovative solutions for the pressing issues our world is facing. French student, Axel Lahterman from Hotel Institute Montreux was selected to attend on behalf of Swiss Education Group as a delegate.

After an incredibly inspiring week at the summit in Bangkok, his life path has shifted completely.

What did you hope to get out of the One Young World event?

“I went to discover ideas but instead left with a life plan.”

I used to be very business focused and was interested in pursuing a career as a financial manager. After attending the event, I see clearly now that I want to focus on advising and supporting people to help solve larger problems. After this experience my entrepreneurial gene has definitely been opened and I want to find a way to earn a salary in a way that I am proud of.

How has this experience changed your life?

I have a lot of conversations with my friends and classmates who feel they are ready to do something but don’t have the right tools to make change. After this experience at One Young World alongside my education, I finally feel prepared with the tools to succeed. 

What was the biggest surprise from the event?

I was expecting the event to have a very official approach (like the United Nations) but this wasn’t the case at all. You could really feel the youthful energy, the playful atmosphere and dynamic approach in every corner. It was clear that the event was run by youth for youth. 

What were the other delegates like?

“There were more than 2000 people from 196 different countries at the event and it felt like each person I met was more interesting than the one before.”

I have a lot of contacts now from all over the world. I have kept in touch with many and we are discussing potential projects to collaborate together on. I even think I met my future mentor!

Next year 5 more Swiss Education Group students will be selected to attend the event. What do you wish for them?

I hope they will open their minds to the bigger problems in the world and learn more deeply about the role they can play to help create solutions.  

What was the big takeaway message from the event?

It’s about the small things that everyone does. Everyone and everything matters! 

Can you share the main emotion you felt during and after the event?

In one word: Hope.  But it’s not easy to express the many different emotions I felt in words. For a closer look at the experiences of the event check out the One Young World video!